Pattern Description:
1850's skirt and jacket
Pattern Sizing:
My packet included sizes 16 - 24 I cut and made the one with the finished garment measurements that match my body, but can't remember which one now - probably the 22.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
My sleeves don't appear as gathered as the ones on the envelope, they are definitely pleats, but I don't mind, I really like the sharp look they give. But I did iron them in, you could probably just not press them.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes, very easy to follow. Lots of details too.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I liked everything about it. There was a lot of hand sewing involved though, but I guess it is trying to be as authentic as possible, which is probably a good idea. The skirt pleats took ages but they do look amazing and I can't imagine them working as well done any other way.
Fabric Used:
A shiny, jacquard curtain fabric from Dunelm Mill. I tried hard to match the patterns on the bodice and sleeves.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I didn't add the trim at all, as I felt that the dress was pretty impressive as it is, and didn't need any embellishments on me. I did buy brown velvet ribbon but decided not to use it here.
These are the only change I made: First on the white sleeves. Instead of attaching them to the dress, I put elastic in the hem and wear them snug around my upper arm. This way they are unattached and can be easily washed. I also didn't attach the collar, but instead just tuck it in and it stays quite well.
Second was the opening at the front. It gaped a little where the hook and eye closures were, so I hand stitched a length of the brown velvet ribbon to the inside of the hooks so that if you do get a peek, at least you aren't seeing the corset underneath, just the brown velvet instead.
Third change was the pillow bustle. I did make this, but when I wore it, I didn't think it was flattering at all, so it's in the cupboard. I am fairly well endowed in the hip and bottom area so was able to get away with just emphasising the thin waist and relied on the hoop petticoat I got from ebay to give it all the sticky-outy-ness it needed.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I'd like to do the bodice again but without the high neck or sleeves. If I made just the bodice and small bell sleeves, then it could be worn with the skirt as an evening gown. That way I'd get more wear out of it.
Conclusion:
Love it! Loved making it and more than that, I love wearing it.
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Pattern with more than 5 reviews!
Such a dream.....
1/15/13 8:24 AM
What a fabulous job you did! It's so beautiful.
1/15/13 8:39 AM
Well Done!
1/15/13 10:50 AM
Yes, this is very natural and very flattering to you, Nessa. Looking forward to reading all the details in your blog, as well.
1/15/13 12:52 PM
What a lovely vacation. You must be a kindred spirit and an old soul. Sometimes I long to dress from a different era, but am thankful for modern conveniences. I love running water, my refrigerator and my telephone. I love your dress.
1/15/13 1:24 PM
oh my, how lovely is that dress and what a perfect setting to show it off!
1/16/13 7:46 AM
Lovely dress! And lovely you wearing it I must say! Thank you for the wonderful review and blog post about your travels, loved reading about your outing very much.
1/16/13 11:59 PM
Beautiful work! I'm glad you were able to enjoy wearing your dress in such a gorgeous setting.
1/17/13 5:25 AM
Wonderful result! I love the result. Thanks for posting all the pics on your blog site.
1/18/13 8:29 PM
The photo shoot is fabulous - right out of a fashion magazine.
1/19/13 7:19 AM
Wow! Fantastic dress. Love the idea of unattached sleeves.
1/30/13 5:09 PM